Jack Blanks began his career in international relief and development in 1974 as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Benin, West Africa. Subsequently, he worked six years for Save the Children in Burkina Faso and Malawi managing community development programs. In 1987 he covered four African nations as a Desk Officer at Peace Corps' Washington D.C. HQ.

Since 1988, he has focused on international health activities. As the Director of Programs for the International Eye Foundation in Bethesda, MD, he coordinated the prevention and cure of blindness programs (1988-1993). As Director of the Onchocerciasis Elimination Program in the Americas (Carter Center led initiative) he launched a successful program in 1994 to eliminate river blindness in the American continent.

Jack joined Project HOPE in 1996 and served sequentially as Regional Director for Africa, Latin America, and Asia. During his later years with Project HOPE, he held the position of Director for Strategic Alliances, creating partnerships with corporations, NGOs, and government agencies. He also coordinated disaster relief efforts for Project HOPE after the 2004 tsunami in Indonesia and Hurricane Katrina in 2005.

After 13 years with Project HOPE, Jack joined Seva Foundation as the Executive Director from 2009-2017 where he directed efforts to prevent blindness and restore sight in 22 developing nations.

Jack holds an MSc. Degree in International Administration from Central Michigan University.